Mary Jolliffe C.M

Mary Irene Patricia Jolliffe C.M.
November 11, 1923 - October 29, 2014
Following a tempestuous struggle with Alzheimer's, Mary passed away at Kipling Acres Long Term Care Home, Rexdale, Ontario. She is prefeceased by her parents, Reverend Richard Orlando and Lena Matilda as well as her 5 elder siblings, John, Alice, Charles, Grace and William.
Mary was born and raised by her missionary parents in and around Chengdu, China. Eventually, she returned to Canada and graduated from the Universiry of Toronto with a teaching degree in English and History.
In 1953 she joined the Stratford Festival, Ontario to become the first theatrical press agent and arts publicist in Canada. She parlayed this initial experience into a lifelong career, heading the communications responsibilities for many of the largest cultural institutions in North America such as, the Metropolitan Opera NY, the National Arts Centre Ottawa and the National Ballet of Canada. In recognition of her outstanding contribution to our theatre arts industry, Mary was awarded the Order of Canada in 1985 and the Silver Ticket Award in 1988.
The fact she was a Founding Member of PAL (Performing Arts Lodge) and one of its first tenants, Mary succeeded in staying close to the community she so enjoyed for most of her remaining years.
In accordance with her wishes, Mary was cremated.
A memorial service will be held at the Performing Arts Lodge (Green Room), 100 The Esplanade, Toronto M5E 1X9 on Tuesday, November 18, from 2 to 4 p.m.
To send expressions of sympathy, visit www.jsjonesandsonfuneralhome.com